Contrary to old-school thinking that prescribed complete rest for injuries, modern medicine champions a different approach: gentle, appropriate movement actually speeds up the healing process.
Blood Flow is Everything
Movement acts like a natural pump, increasing blood circulation to injured areas. This enhanced blood flow delivers essential nutrients, oxygen, and healing compounds while whisking away waste products and inflammatory substances that can slow recovery.
Preventing the Stiffness Trap
Extended immobility leads to muscle weakness, joint stiffness, and reduced flexibility – often creating more problems than the original injury. Gentle movement maintains joint mobility and prevents the formation of restrictive scar tissue that can limit future function.
The Science of Tissue Repair
Controlled movement stimulates collagen production, the building block of healthy tissue repair. It also promotes proper fibre alignment during healing, resulting in stronger, more flexible tissue rather than rigid scar formation. For advice from a Chiropractor Evesham, visit purelandschiro.co.uk/chiropractor-evesham/
Mental Health Benefits
Movement releases endorphins, natural pain relievers that improve mood and reduce the psychological stress often associated with injury recovery. This positive mindset can significantly impact healing speed.
The Right Kind of Movement
The key is appropriate, graduated movement guided by healthcare professionals. This might include gentle stretching, controlled range-of-motion exercises, or modified activities that don’t aggravate the injury.
Listen to Your Body
While movement is beneficial, pain is your body’s warning system. The goal is therapeutic movement that promotes healing without causing additional damage or setbacks.